Real Madrid continue preparations for Girona clash with focus on Bayern return leg
· Yahoo Sports
Real Madrid were back at Valdebebas on Wednesday as they continued preparations for their upcoming La Liga fixture against Girona, set to be played at the Santiago Bernabéu on Friday night.
Following the midweek clash against Bayern Munich, the session was split in intensity. Players who featured from the start in that match focused on recovery work inside the gym, while the rest of the squad trained out on the pitch.
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The session began with activation drills and rondos before transitioning into more demanding work with the ball. Players went through high-intensity exercises and finishing drills, with the training wrapping up in small-sided games.
One of the key positives from the session was Ferland Mendy’s full participation. The French left-back completed the entire workout with the group, signaling a potential return to matchday involvement. While he could be included in the squad against Girona, the priority appears to be ensuring he is fully fit for the decisive second leg against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena next week. That said, he may still get minutes in the league as part of his reintegration.
Meanwhile, Thibaut Courtois and Rodrygo remain sidelined as they continue their respective recovery processes.
Looking ahead, Álvaro Arbeloa is already setting the tone for the trip to Munich, making it clear that only players who believe in a comeback will be part of the squad. The expectation is that Mendy will be available, along with Jude Bellingham and Éder Militão, both of whom are nearing full fitness and could play important roles in the return leg.
Mendy’s return, in particular, could have tactical implications. His defensive reliability at left-back has historically been crucial in containing elite wingers, and Madrid may look to him again in that role against Bayern’s wide threats. His previous performances in big European ties underline his importance when fully fit.